2013 Pilot 2WD or 4WD – What’s the Difference?

Published on: April 15th, 2013

The 2013 Honda Pilot is the ultimate SUV for large families. Not only does it provide spacious seating and ample cargo capacity, but the Honda Pilot is one of the most affordable in its class. Choosing the 2013 Pilot is a pretty easy decision. What may be harder is choosing the drivetrain. The 2013 Pilot 2WD or 4WD: What’s the difference and which is better?

What’s the Difference?

2013 Pilot 2WD

The 2013 Pilot comes equipped with a two-wheel drive system or 2WD. SUVs with 2WD send the engine’s power to two wheels, either the rear pair or the front pair (RWD or FWD). In the case of the 2013 Pilot, the power is sent to the front wheels to provide better traction for rain, snow, and ice than its RWD counterpart.

2013 Pilot 4WD

The 2013 Pilot is available with a four-wheel drive (4WD) option. The 4WD system has the capability to send the engine’s power to all four wheels. Traditional 4WD systems are good for mud, snow, ice, and as a result off-roading, but suffer from lowered fuel economy due to the heavier, complex gears. The Pilot’s 4WD is a modern all-wheel drive system (AWD).

The Pilot has four wheels, so what makes its AWD different from a traditional 4WD? Good question. All-wheel drive is a variation of the traditional four-wheel drive. However, AWD is akin to 2WD, but adds a compact center differential, driveshaft and rear differential. Simply put, the drivetrain in an AWD SUV is controlled by a traction sensing system that alters the amount of power delivered to each wheel based on traction and turning. The Pilot’s AWD automatically shifts as much as 70 percent of power to the rear wheels if the front tires lose traction. In addition, drivers have a VTM-4 Lock® feature that routes maximum torque to the rear wheels in 1st or 2nd gear at low speeds to help free a stuck Pilot. This is the superior option for control in all conditions.

Which is Better?

It depends on the conditions the Pilot will be regularly placed in and what the driver feels comfortable with. The 2WD / FWD system will be sufficient for basic everyday use. Costs of operation will be slightly less due to the lighter build improving fuel efficiency; simpler equipment resulting in lower maintenance costs; and lack of off-roading capability generally lowering insurance costs.

Realistically, the EPA gap between 2WD and 4WD / AWD Pilots is not that big, and averages out to be around 1 mpg. If you frequent areas with icy road conditions or feel unsafe on the rare occasions it snows in Atlanta, the AWD Pilot will ease your conscience. It’s also the only reasonable option for those with off-roading intentions.

Test Drive the 2013 Honda Pilot at Honda Carland

Come experience the 2013 Pilot for yourself. Call or come in today for a test drive at Honda Carland. Our dedicated and experienced representatives are at your service with answers to any questions you may have. We always have the latest Pilots in stock, and with our extensive inventory of new Hondas, and quality used vehicles, you can be sure to fine the right one for you!